Gunner Filipowicz named USA Wrestling Athlete of the Week, presented by U.S. Air Force Special Warfare

Gunner Filipowicz (Alpharetta, Ga./Army) has been named the USA Wrestling Athlete of the Week, presented by U.S. Air Force Special Warfare, on January 8, 2025.

Filipowicz secured the only individual title for the Black Knights at the 2025 Southern Scuffle. In the finals, Filipowicz defeated Duke’s Aidan Wallace, 18-3, ending the match in the second period. After the first frame, Filipowicz held a 10-1 lead through two takedowns and four near fall points. In the second, he didn’t let up as a reversal and two more takedowns would be enough to earn the title.

Throughout the tournament, Filipowicz recorded two major decisions, two falls and two technical falls. His performance at the event was instrumental helping Army clinch its first-ever Southern Scuffle team title in program history.

After pushing seven into the semifinals on day one, the Black Knights had nine athletes place, with two finalists in Filipowicz at 165 pounds and Lucas Stoddard at 285 pounds. Filipowicz is ranked 20th in the latest FloWrestling individual rankings, while Army is ranked 23rd in the latest NWCA Division I Men’s Wrestling Coaches Poll released on Tuesday.

To nominate a wrestler for this honor please email the athlete's name, wrestling program, weekly accomplishments, and career accolades to communications@usawrestling.org.